Minister for Water Resources Ramalinga Reddy announced his resignation from the Karnataka Cabinet on Friday. He cited Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s alleged failure to honor a promise regarding the Bengaluru Urban portfolio as the reason for his decision. This move is seen as a setback for Chief Minister Shivakumar, who recently assumed office.
Reddy, speaking from his office in Koramangala, Bengaluru, stated that he was initially assured the Bengaluru Development portfolio for 2023. However, he was later assigned the Transport portfolio instead. Expressing dissatisfaction, Reddy claimed that senior leaders, including former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, discussed the issue.
During the government formation process, Reddy alleged that he was promised the Bengaluru Urban portfolio after 2.5 years. He mentioned that Chief Minister Shivakumar and his brother personally assured him of this. Despite these assurances, Reddy was eventually given the Water Resources portfolio instead.
The veteran Congress leader, Reddy, emphasized that he could not act against his conscience. While resigning from his ministerial post, he clarified that he would continue as an MLA and remain in the Congress party. Reddy, who has been active in politics since 1973, highlighted his long-standing commitment to the party and his electoral history in Bengaluru.
Recalling his ministerial career, Reddy mentioned his service in the cabinets of various Chief Ministers without demanding specific portfolios. He signed his resignation papers in the presence of party workers at his office, despite urging from them and KPCC President B.K. Hariprasad to reconsider his decision.
